Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.